X-ray image diagnosis apparatus and control method

ABSTRACT

An X-ray image diagnosis apparatus which can accept operations from a plurality of operation panels can ensure convenience for operators while avoiding the risk of excessively exposing an object to X-rays. This invention is a control method in an X-ray image diagnosis apparatus which irradiates an object with X-rays and processes a captured image obtained by imaging the object. This method includes the steps of receiving information associated with an imaging condition at the time of X-ray irradiation which is input via an operation panel, discriminating, when the information associated with the imaging condition is received, an operation panel from which the information associated with the imaging condition has been input, and restricting, when the information associated with the imaging condition is received, the reception of a specific instruction input via an operation panel other than the discriminated operation panel.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a control technique in an X-ray imagediagnosis apparatus.

2. Description of the Related Art

Recently, in the field of X-ray image diagnosis apparatuses for medicaluse, apparatuses of the digital image scheme have become mainstream inplace of those of the conventional analog imaging scheme. For example,the digital image scheme allows continuously captured digital images tobe displayed as moving images and stored in a memory and a hard diskdrive. This advantageously provides ease of use in performing diagnosis,medical treatments, and the like.

In general, an X-ray image diagnosis apparatus of the digital imagescheme includes an imaging apparatus body which irradiates X-rays andgenerates radiographed images based on data read from a sensor panel.This apparatus also includes an operation panel to input imagingconditions to be set in the imaging apparatus body and issue an X-rayirradiation instruction to the imaging apparatus body.

In addition, it is possible to form a network system by connecting, tothe imaging apparatus body, a monitor cart to store/display generatedcaptured images and input patient information.

Forming such a system makes it also possible to input imaging conditionsand an X-ray irradiation instruction via the operation panel provided onthe monitor cart.

In the network system formed in this manner, when control operations areperformed from a plurality of operation panels, the contents of thecontrol operations from the respective operation panels are evenly sentto the imaging apparatus body. The imaging apparatus body is thencontrolled to sequentially perform processing in accordance with theorder in which the control operations have been performed.

Alternatively, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No.2006-325956, providing an operation unit selection button or the like toexplicitly switch an operation panel having an operation right makes itpossible to perform control so as to make only one operation panelpermanently effective.

In the case of a network system having a plurality of operation panelsconnected to an imaging apparatus body, doctors or technicians oftenperform control operations via different operation panels from therespective standpoints.

In this case, since the imaging apparatus body simultaneously acceptscontrol operations such as the input of X-ray irradiation startinstructions and imaging conditions (a dose of X-rays, frame rate,irradiation field, and the like) from a plurality of operation panels,the apparatus body may start imaging under unintended imagingconditions. That is, there is a risk that an object to be examined maybe excessively exposed to X-rays.

In contrast, configuring this system to set an operation right and makean operable operation panel permanently effective will prohibit anycontrol operations from operation panels having no operation right. Thiswill lead to deterioration in operation efficiency and a delay in takingaction in an emergency.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has been made in consideration of the aboveproblem.

An X-ray image diagnosis apparatus according to the present inventionhas the following arrangement. That is, an X-ray image diagnosisapparatus which irradiates an object with X-rays and processes aradiographed image obtained by imaging the object, the apparatuscomprising: a reception unit configured to receive informationassociated with an imaging condition at the time of X-ray irradiationwhich is input via an operation panel; a discrimination unit configuredto discriminate, when the reception unit receives the informationassociated with the imaging condition, an operation panel from which theinformation associated with the imaging condition has been input; and arestriction unit configured to restrict, when the reception unitreceives the information associated with the imaging condition,reception of a specific instruction input via an operation panel otherthan the operation panel discriminated by the discrimination unit.

A control method according to the present invention comprises thefollowing steps.

That is, a control method being for application to an X-ray imagediagnosis apparatus which irradiates an object with X-rays and processesa radiographed image obtained by imaging the object, the methodcomprising steps of: receiving information associated with an imagingcondition at the time of X-ray irradiation which is input via anoperation panel; discriminating, when the information associated withthe imaging condition is received in the step of receiving, an operationpanel from which the information associated with the imaging conditionhas been input; and restricting, when the information associated withthe imaging condition is received in the step of receiving, reception ofa specific instruction input via an operation panel other than theoperation panel discriminated in the step of discriminating.

According to the present invention, the X-ray image diagnosis apparatuscapable of accepting control operations from a plurality of operationpanels can ensure convenience for operators while avoiding the risk ofexcessively exposing an object to X-rays.

Further features of the present invention will become apparent from thefollowing description of exemplary embodiments with reference to theattached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and,together with the description, serve to explain the principles of theinvention.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall arrangement of an X-rayimage diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of a display window displayed on amonitor forming an operation panel A 116 or operation panel B 133;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a control processing sequence in an X-rayimage diagnosis apparatus 100;

FIG. 4 is a view showing the state transition associated with controloperations in the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are flowcharts showing a control processing sequence inan X-ray image diagnosis apparatus according to the second embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 6 is a view showing the state transition associated with controloperations in an X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100;

FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a window displayed on a monitorforming an operation panel A 116 or operation panel B 113 in an X-rayimage diagnosis apparatus according to the third embodiment of thepresent invention; and

FIG. 8 is a view showing another example of the window displayed on themonitor forming the operation panel A 116 or operation panel B 113 inthe X-ray image diagnosis apparatus according to the third embodiment ofthe present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail inaccordance with the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment]

<1. Overall Arrangement of X-Ray Image Diagnosis Apparatus>

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall arrangement of an X-rayimage diagnosis apparatus according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

As shown in FIG. 1, an X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100 according tothis embodiment includes a sensor unit 101, an X-ray generator 120, animaging controller 110, and a monitor cart 130.

The sensor unit 101 includes an X-ray sensor 102 and a sensor controlunit 103. The X-ray sensor 102 includes, for example, a unit formed froma solid-state imaging device which senses X-rays and outputs anelectrical signal corresponding to the intensity of the detected X-rays.Alternatively, the sensor unit includes a unit formed by combining aphosphor which generates fluorescence corresponding to the energy ofX-rays and a photoelectric conversion element which converts thefluorescence into an electrical signal corresponding to the intensity ofvisible light.

The raw digital image data output from the X-ray sensor 102 istransmitted to the imaging controller 110.

The sensor control unit 103 drives/controls the X-ray sensor 102. Morespecifically, the sensor control unit 103 generates a timing signaldefining the timing of data output of the X-ray sensor 102 in accordancewith a timing instruction from an imaging control unit 114 (to bedescribed later). The sensor control unit 103 also performs output modesetting processing for the X-ray sensor 102 in accordance with aparameter from the imaging control unit 114.

Assume that a fast digital interface such as LVDS (Low VoltageDifferential Signaling) is used for the transmission of raw digitalimage data between the sensor unit 101 and the imaging controller 110.In addition, asynchronous serial communication such as UART is used toinput and output timing instructions and parameters.

The X-ray generator 120 includes an X-ray tube 121 and an X-ray pulsecontrol unit 122. The X-ray tube 121 irradiates pulse X-rays inaccordance with a timing signal from the X-ray pulse control unit 122.The X-ray pulse control unit 122 outputs a timing signal defining anX-ray irradiation timing for the X-ray tube 121 under imaging conditionsset based on a timing instruction and parameters from the imagingcontrol unit 114 (to be described later).

Assume that asynchronous serial communication or a low-delay networkprotocol such as CAN is used for the input/output of timing instructionsand parameters between the X-ray generator 120 and the imagingcontroller 110. Note that CAN is an abbreviated expression of ControllerArea Network.

The imaging controller 110 includes an image processing unit 111, anencoding unit 112, a display image transmission unit 113, the imagingcontrol unit 114, an operation control unit 115, and an operation panelA 116.

The imaging controller 110 can continuously obtain images bycontinuously transmitting timing instructions to the X-ray generator 120and the sensor unit 101. For example, the imaging controller 110 cangenerate moving image data at 30 fps by transmitting 30 timinginstructions per sec.

The image processing unit 111 performs predetermined image processingfor raw digital image data transmitted from the sensor unit 101. Morespecifically, the image processing unit 111 performs, for example,correction processing or noise removal processing dependent on thecharacteristics of the X-ray sensor 102, or quality enhancementprocessing such as dynamic range improvement.

The raw digital image data having undergone image processing is sent tothe encoding unit 112. Note that if encoding is not to be performed, thedata is directly sent to the display image transmission unit 113.

The encoding unit 112 performs lossless compression encoding processingfor the raw digital image data having undergone image processing, andthen sends the raw digital image data to the display image transmissionunit 113.

The display image transmission unit 113 transmits the raw digital imagedata having undergone compression encoding processing as diagnosis imagedata to the monitor cart 130.

Assume that a network using Gigabit Ethernet® used for the transmissionof diagnosis image data connects the imaging controller 110 and themonitor cart 130. For this reason, the display image transmission unit113 transmits the diagnosis image data to the monitor cart 130 uponexecuting packetization processing and network protocol processing forthe data.

The imaging control unit 114 and the operation control unit 115 eachinclude a microprocessor, a ROM (Read Only Memory) storing controlprograms, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) used as a work area at thetime of execution of a program. Each unit further includes an I/O port.

The operation control unit 115 accepts an operation signal correspondingto a control operation from the operation panel A 116, or accepts anoperation command generated in correspondence with a control operationon the operation panel B 133 via a network.

The imaging control unit 114 outputs an imaging start/stop instructionin accordance with an operation signal or operation command accepted bythe operation control unit 115, or outputs parameters for settingimaging conditions in the sensor unit 101 and the X-ray generator 120.The imaging control unit 114 also outputs timing instructions. Thedetails of processing in the imaging control unit 114 and operationcontrol unit 115 will be described later with reference to FIG. 3.

The operation panel A 116 includes a touch panel and a dedicatedmonitor. When an operator touches an area corresponding to a graphicbutton or icon displayed on the monitor with a pen or finger (performs acontrol operation), the operation panel A 116 designates the operationof the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100. The operation panel A 116 isconnected to the operation control unit 115 via an interface such as DVIor USB.

The monitor cart 130 includes a PC (Personal Computer) and peripheraldevices connected thereto. More specifically, the monitor cart 130includes a display system 132, a display device 131, an operation panelB 133, and a storage device 134.

The display system 132 is constituted by a PC main body and applicationsoftware operating on the PC. The display system 132 receives thediagnosis image data transmitted from the imaging controller 110 via anetwork. If the diagnosis image data has been encoded, the displaysystem 132 outputs the data to the display device 131 upon decoding it.In addition, the display system 132 can store the diagnosis image datain the storage device 134, generate an operation command correspondingto a control operation on the operation panel B 133, and transfer thecommand to the imaging controller 110 via the network.

The display device 131 is a live monitor for displaying the diagnosisimage data transmitted from the imaging controller 110, and is connectedto the display system 132 via a DVI interface.

The operation panel B 133 includes a membrane keyboard having dedicatedbuttons arranged thereon, a general-purpose keyboard for a PC, a mouse,and an operation monitor. Like the operation panel A 116, the operationpanel B 133 can designate the operation of the X-ray image diagnosisapparatus 100 by performing a control operation.

<2. Display Window Displayed on Operation Panel A or B>

FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of the display window displayed on amonitor forming the operation panel A 116 or operation panel B 133.

Referring to FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes the entire area of amonitor screen. This area has a resolution of VGA (640×480 dots).

Reference numeral 202 denotes an area for displaying the currently setnumerical values of imaging conditions. In this area, the respectivevalues including a kV value (tube voltage value), mA value (tube currentvalue), mAs value (tube current-time product value), and fps value(frame rate) are displayed from the left to the right. When a controloperation is performed to input an imaging condition, the correspondingdisplayed value in the area 202 changes accordingly.

Reference numeral 203 denotes an imaging mode selection area including a“still image button” and a “fluoroscopy button”. Selecting one of thesebuttons can designate the still image radiography mode or thefluoroscopic radiography mode as an imaging mode.

Reference numeral 204 denotes an area for inputting imaging conditions.This area includes radio buttons each for selecting a type of imagingcondition (a tube current value, tube voltage value, or frame rate) andupward and downward arrow buttons for changing the value of a selectedimaging condition. When an imaging condition is selected, thecorresponding radio button is displayed in black. Selecting an imagingcondition and pressing the upward and downward arrow buttons toincrease/decrease the numerical value can input the imaging condition.Input numerical values are sequentially displayed in the area 202described above.

Reference numeral 205 denotes an area for displaying a C-arm controlbutton. The X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100 has the sensor unit 101and the X-ray tube 121 mounted on the two ends of an arm in the form ofthe letter “C”. Moving and rotating this arm by arbitrary amounts canradiograph the object at various positions and angles.

In the area 205, buttons for moving the arm in the vertical andhorizontal directions, changing the vertical angle of the arm, andcontrolling the rotation of the arm in the axial direction are arrangedfrom the left to the right. Pressing these buttons can operate a motorincorporated in the C-arm to move and rotate the arm.

Reference numeral 206 denotes an area for displaying collimator stopcontrol buttons. The collimator is a stop device for changing the shapeand size of an X-ray irradiation field. In the area 206, buttons forperforming vertical stop control, horizontal stop control, andirradiation area control are arranged from the left to the right.

Reference numeral 207 denotes an irradiation start instruction button;and 208, an irradiation stop instruction button. When the operatorpresses the irradiation start instruction button 207, the apparatusstarts imaging based on the set imaging conditions.

When the operator presses the irradiation stop instruction button 208,the apparatus stops imaging. This embodiment uses the buttons displayedon the operation panel to issue these imaging start and stopinstructions. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Forexample, the apparatus can be configured to issue imaging start and stopinstructions by using, for example, discrete foot switches, handswitches, and membrane switches. In addition, the buttons for issuingimaging start and stop instructions may be integrated into one button orswitch instead of including discrete buttons. Assume that in this case,the apparatus performs imaging while the operator keeps pressing thebutton, and stops imaging at the same time when the operator releasesthe button.

<3. Control Processing Sequence in X-Ray Image Diagnosis Apparatus>

A control processing sequence in the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100will be described next with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a flowchartshowing a control processing sequence in the X-ray image diagnosisapparatus 100. Note that this flowchart is implemented by causing amicroprocessor to execute control programs which are stored in the ROMand implement the imaging control unit 114 and the operation controlunit 115.

In step S301, the microprocessor executes the processing of setting theoperation right in neutral. The operation right is the right to operatethe imaging control unit 114 by performing a specific control operation(inputting imaging conditions and an irradiation start instruction). Thestate in which the operation right is set in neutral is the state inwhich the imaging control unit 114 operates in accordance with a controloperation on either of the two operation panels (the operation panel A116 and the operation panel B 133).

In step S302, the microprocessor waits for a control operation by theoperator on an operation panel. More specifically, the operation controlunit 115 executes the processing of waiting for the transmission of anoperation signal from the operation panel A 116 or an operation commandfrom the display system 132.

When the operator performs a control operation on the operation panel A116 or the operation panel B 133 in step S302, the process advances tostep S303.

In step S303, the microprocessor determines whether the operation is acontrol operation on the operation panel A 116 and the control operationis the input of an imaging condition. More specifically, the operationcontrol unit 115 determines whether the input is an operation signalgenerated in accordance with a control operation on each button in theimaging condition area 204 displayed on the monitor forming theoperation panel A 116.

If the microprocessor determines that the operation is a controloperation on the operation panel A 116 and the control operation is theinput of an imaging condition, the process advances to step S304.

In step S304, the operation control unit 115 performs the processing ofsetting the operation right in the operation panel A 116. In the statein which the operation right is set in the operation panel A 116, theoperator cannot input any imaging condition (any control operation onthe buttons arranged in the imaging condition area 204) or anyirradiation start instruction from another operation panel (theoperation panel B 133). That is, even if an operation commandcorresponding to the input of an imaging condition and irradiation startinstruction from the operation panel B 133 is transmitted, the operationcontrol unit 115 rejects the reception of the operation command.

In step S305, the imaging control unit 114 executes the processing ofsetting the input imaging condition. An imaging condition is set bytransmitting a parameter to the sensor unit 101 and X-ray generator 120connected to the imaging controller 110.

If the microprocessor determines in step S303 that the control operationon the operation panel A 116 is not the input of any imaging conditionfrom the operation panel A 116, the process advances to step S306.

The microprocessor checks in step S306 whether the operation is theinput of an imaging condition from the operation panel B 133. Morespecifically, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the input isa transmitted operation command corresponding to the input of an imagingcondition from the operation panel B 133 of the monitor cart 130.

If the microprocessor determines as a result of the check that theoperation is the input of an imaging condition from the operation panelB 133, the process advances to step S307. In step S307, the operationcontrol unit 115 checks the current set state of the operation right. Ifthe microprocessor determines as a result of the check in step S307 thatthe operation right is set in the operation panel A 116, themicroprocessor rejects the acceptance of an operation commandcorresponding to the input of an imaging condition from the operationpanel B 133.

In this case, in step S308, the operation control unit 115 performs theprocessing of transmitting an error command to the monitor cart 130 viathe network.

If the microprocessor determines in step S307 that the operation rightis not set in the operation panel A 116, that is, the operation right isset in the operation panel B 133, the process advances to step S305. Instep S305, the imaging control unit 114 executes the processing ofsetting the input imaging condition.

If the microprocessor determines in step S306 that the input is not theinput of an imaging condition from the operation panel B 133, theprocess advances to step S309.

In step S309, the microprocessor determines whether the input is aninput for C-arm/collimator operation control. More specifically, theoperation control unit 115 checks whether the input is an operationsignal corresponding to a control operation on each button in the area205 or 206 displayed on the monitor forming the operation panel A 116.Alternatively, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the inputis an operation command transmitted by performing a similar controloperation on the operation panel B 133.

If the microprocessor determines as a result of the check in step S309that the input is for C-arm/collimator operation control, the processadvances to step S310 to execute C-arm/collimator control operation.More specifically, the microprocessor transmits control commands to theC-arm control motor and collimator connected to the imaging controller110.

If the microprocessor determines as a result of the check in step S309that the input is not for C-arm/collimator operation control, theprocess advances to step S311. In step S311, the operation control unit115 checks whether the input is the input of an irradiation startinstruction. If the operation control unit 115 determines that the inputis the input of an irradiation start instruction, the process advancesto step S312. In step S312, the imaging control unit 114 starts imaging.

If the microprocessor determines in step S311 that the input is not theinput of an irradiation start instruction, the process returns to stepS302 again to wait for a control operation on one of the operationpanels.

As described with reference to FIG. 1, in step S312, the microprocessordrives the sensor unit 101 and the X-ray generator 120 under set imagingconditions to generate raw digital image data used for a moving or stillimage.

In addition, the microprocessor drives the image processing unit 111 toexecute image processing for the raw digital image data, and drives theencoding unit 112 to execute encoding processing for the raw digitalimage data.

Furthermore, the microprocessor drives the display image transmissionunit 113 to execute the processing of transmitting the encoded rawdigital image data as diagnosis image data to the monitor cart 130. Whenimaging is complete, the process advances to step S301 to clear the setoperation right and return its state to the neutral state again.

As described above, in the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus according tothis embodiment, once an imaging condition is input from a predeterminedoperation panel, no imaging condition can be input from other operationpanels. This makes it possible to avoid the setting of an unintendedimaging condition.

Note that the apparatus allows control operations other than the inputof an imaging condition, and hence ensures convenience for the operator.

<4. State Transition in X-Ray Image Diagnosis Apparatus>

FIG. 4 is a view showing the state transition associated with controloperations in the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100. Referring to FIG.4, reference numeral 401 denotes a setting wait state. This is the stateafter the operation right is set in neutral in step S301 in FIG. 3.

In the setting wait state 401, when an imaging condition is input fromthe operation panel A 116 (step S303), the state transitions to asetting state 402.

In the setting state 402, the input of an imaging condition from theoperation panel A 116 is normally processed. In contrast, the input ofan imaging condition from the operation panel B 133 is not normallyprocessed, and the state transitions to an error state 404. That is,step S308 is executed to transmit an error command to the monitor cart130.

If an irradiation start instruction (step S311) is input in the settingstate 402, the state transitions to an X-ray irradiating state 403. Thatis, the apparatus starts imaging (step S312). When imaging is complete,the state transitions to the setting wait state 401 again.

In the setting wait state 401, when an imaging condition is input fromthe operation panel B 133, the state transitions to the setting state405. In this case, as in setting state 402, although the input of animaging condition from the operation panel B 133 is normally processed,the input of an imaging condition from the operation panel A 116 is notnormally processed. The state then transitions to an error state 407.

In addition, when an irradiation start instruction is issued in asetting state 405, the state transitions to an X-ray irradiating state406. When imaging is complete, the state transitions to the setting waitstate 401 again.

As is obvious from the above description, the X-ray image diagnosisapparatus according to this embodiment is configured to accept controloperations on a plurality of operation panels. The apparatus isconfigured such that when an imaging condition is input, the apparatusaccepts only an input from the operation panel from which the firstimaging condition has been input, as long as the input is an imagingcondition. The apparatus is also configured to accept a controloperation other than the input of an imaging condition.

This makes it possible to avoid the situation in which the apparatusstarts imaging under an unintended imaging condition.

Consequently, this can ensure convenience for operators while avoidingthe risk of excessively exposing an object to X-rays.

[Second Embodiment]

The first embodiment is configured such that when an imaging conditionis input, the apparatus restricts the input of an imaging condition froman operation panel other than the operation panel from which the imagingcondition has been input. However, the present invention is not limitedto this.

For example, the apparatus may be configured to restrict the input of anirradiation start instruction from an operation panel other than theoperation panel from which an imaging condition has been input. Thedetails of this embodiment will be described below.

<1. Control Processing Sequence in X-Ray Image Diagnosis Apparatus>

FIGS. 5A and 5B are flowcharts showing a control processing sequence inan X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100 according to the secondembodiment of the present invention. Note that this flowchart isimplemented by causing a microprocessor to execute control programswhich are stored in the ROM and implement an imaging control unit 114and an operation control unit 115.

In step S501, the microprocessor executes the processing of setting theoperation right in neutral.

In step S502, the microprocessor waits for a control operation by theoperator on an operation panel. More specifically, the operation controlunit 115 executes the processing of waiting for the transmission of anoperation signal from an operation panel A 116 or an operation commandfrom a display system 132.

When control operation is performed on the operation panel A 116 or theoperation panel B 133 in step S502, the process advances to step S503.

In step S503, the microprocessor determines whether the operation is acontrol operation on the operation panel A 116 and the control operationis the input of an imaging condition. More specifically, the operationcontrol unit 115 determines whether the input is an operation signalgenerated in accordance with a control operation on each button in animaging condition area 204 displayed on the monitor forming theoperation panel A 116.

If the microprocessor determines that the operation is a controloperation on the operation panel A 116 and the control operation is theinput of an imaging condition, the process advances to step S504.

In step S504, the operation control unit 115 performs the processing ofsetting the operation right in the operation panel A 116. In the statein which the operation right is set in the operation panel A 116, theoperator cannot input any irradiation start instruction from anotheroperation panel (the operation panel B 133). That is, even if anoperation command corresponding to the input of an irradiation startinstruction from the operation panel B 133 is transmitted, the operationcontrol unit 115 rejects the reception of the operation command.

In step S505, the imaging control unit 114 executes the processing ofsetting the input imaging condition. An imaging condition is set bytransmitting a parameter to a sensor unit 101 and X-ray generator 120connected to an imaging controller 110.

If the microprocessor determines in step S503 that the control operationon the operation panel A 116 is not the input of any imaging condition,the process advances to step S506.

The microprocessor checks in step S506 whether the operation is theinput of an imaging condition from an operation panel B 133. Morespecifically, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the input isa transmitted operation command corresponding to the input of an imagingcondition which is performed on the operation panel B 133 of a monitorcart 130.

If the microprocessor determines as a result of the check that theoperation is the input of an imaging condition from the operation panelB 133, the process advances to step S507. In step S507, the operationcontrol unit 115 executes the processing of setting the operation rightin the operation panel B 133. Furthermore, in step S505, the imagingcontrol unit 114 executes the processing of setting an imagingcondition.

If the microprocessor determines in step S506 that the operation is notthe input of any imaging condition from the operation panel B 133, theprocess advances to step S508.

In step S508, the microprocessor determines whether the input is aninput for C-arm/collimator operation control. More specifically, theoperation control unit 115 checks whether the input is an operationsignal corresponding to a control operation on each button in an area205 or 206 displayed on the monitor forming the operation panel A 116.Alternatively, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the inputis an operation command transmitted by performing a similar controloperation on the operation panel B 133.

If the microprocessor determines as a result of the check in step S508that the input is for C-arm/collimator operation control, the processadvances to step S509 to execute a C-arm/collimator control operation.More specifically, the microprocessor transmits control commands to theC-arm control motor and collimator connected to the imaging controller110.

If the microprocessor determines as a result of the check in step S508that the input is not for C-arm/collimator operation control, theprocess advances to step S510.

In step S510, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the input isthe input of an irradiation start instruction. More specifically, theoperation control unit 115 determines whether the input is an operationsignal corresponding to the input of an irradiation start instructionfrom the operation panel A 116. If the operation control unit 115determines that the input is the input of an irradiation startinstruction from the operation panel A 116, the process advances to stepS511.

In step S511, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the currentoperation right is set in the operation panel A 116. If the operationcontrol unit 115 determines as a result of the check in step S511 thatthe operation right is not set in the operation panel A 116, that is,the operation right is set in the operation panel B 133, the processadvances to step S513.

In step S513, the operation control unit 115 rejects the reception of anoperation signal corresponding to the input of an irradiation startinstruction from the operation panel A 116, and displays an errormessage on the monitor forming the operation panel A 116.

If the operation control unit 115 determines in step S511 that theoperation right is set in the operation panel A 116, the processadvances to step S512.

In step S512, the imaging control unit 114 starts imaging. Note thatimaging is the same as that in step S312 in FIG. 3. When imaging iscomplete, the process returns to step S501.

If the operation control unit 115 determines in step S510 that the inputis not the input of an irradiation start instruction from the operationpanel A 116, the process advances to step S514. In step S514, theoperation control unit 115 checks whether the input is the input of anirradiation start instruction from the operation panel B 133. Morespecifically, the operation control unit 115 determines whether theinput is an operation command transmitted in accordance with the inputof an irradiation start instruction from the operation panel B 133. Ifthe operation control unit 115 determines in step S514 that the input isthe input of an irradiation start instruction from the operation panel B133, the process advances to step S515.

In step S515, the operation control unit 115 checks whether the currentoperation right is set in the operation panel B 133. If the operationcontrol unit 115 determines as a result of the check in step S515 thatthe operation right is not set in the operation panel B 133, the processadvances to step S516.

In step S516, the operation control unit 115 rejects the reception of anoperation command corresponding to the input of an irradiation startinstruction from the operation panel B 133, and transmits an errorcommand to the monitor cart 130 via a network.

If the operation control unit 115 determines as a result of the check instep S515 that the operation right is set in the operation panel B 133,the process advances to step S512, in which the imaging control unit 114starts imaging. When imaging is complete, the process returns to stepS501 again.

<2. State Transition in X-Ray Image Diagnosis Apparatus>

FIG. 6 is a view showing the state transition of control operations inthe X-ray image diagnosis apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.Note that states 601 to 607 in FIG. 6 respectively correspond to thestates 401 to 407 in FIG. 4.

In the setting wait state 601, when an imaging condition is input fromthe operation panel A 116 (step S503), the state transitions to thesetting state 602.

In the setting state 602, if an imaging condition is input from theoperation panel A 116, the input is normally processed. In contrast, ifan imaging condition is input from the operation panel B 133 (stepS506), the state transitions to the setting state 605 of the operationpanel B 133.

If an irradiation start instruction (step S510) is input from theoperation panel A 116, the state transitions to the X-ray irradiatingstate 603. When imaging (step S512) is complete, the state transitionsto the setting wait state 601 again. In addition, if an irradiationstart instruction (step S514) is input from the operation panel B 133,the state transitions to the error state 604 and returns to the settingstate 602 again.

In the setting wait state 601, when an imaging condition is input fromthe operation panel B 133, the state transitions to the setting state605 of the operation panel B 133. In this case, as in the setting state602, when an imaging condition is input from the operation panel B 133,the input is normally executed. When an imaging condition is input fromthe operation panel A 116, the state transitions to the setting state602 of the operation panel A 116.

When an irradiation start instruction is input from the operation panelB 133, the state transitions to the X-ray irradiating state 606. Whenimaging is complete, the state transitions to the setting wait state 601again. When an irradiation start instruction is input from the operationpanel A 116, the state transitions to the error state 607 and thenreturns to the setting state 605.

As is obvious from the above description, the X-ray image diagnosisapparatus according to this embodiment is configured such that everytime an imaging condition is input, the operation right is re-set in theoperation panel from which the imaging condition has been input. Theapparatus is configured not to accept the input of an irradiation startinstruction from the operation panel in which the operation right is notset. The apparatus is also configured to accept a control operationother than the input of an irradiation start instruction.

This makes it possible to avoid the situation in which the apparatusstarts imaging under an unintended imaging condition.

Consequently, this can ensure convenience for operators while avoidingthe risk of excessively exposing an object to X-rays.

[Third Embodiment]

The first and second embodiments are configured such that when theoperation right is set in a given operation panel, the apparatusrestricts the input of any imaging condition or irradiation startinstruction from another operation panel in which the operation right isnot set. However, the present invention is not limited to thisarrangement.

If the apparatus keeps restricting a control operation on anotheroperation panel as in the first and second embodiments, it may restricteven a control operation to be performed in an emergency. Depending onthe use case or situation of the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus, therecan be a case in which it is necessary to accept even a controloperation from an operation panel on which a control operation isrestricted.

The third embodiment will therefore exemplify an arrangement configuredto further improve the usability of an X-ray image diagnosis apparatuswhile avoiding the risk of starting imaging under unintended imagingconditions.

FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a window displayed on a monitorforming an operation panel A 116 or operation panel B 133 in the X-rayimage diagnosis apparatus according to this embodiment.

The window shown in FIG. 7 differs from the window shown in FIG. 2 (awindow on the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus according to the firstembodiment) in that the window in FIG. 7 additionally has a lock releasebutton 701.

The lock release button 701 is a button for releasing the restriction ofa control operation on one of the operation panel A 116 and theoperation panel B 133 which is restricted from being used to input animaging condition or irradiation start instruction.

Assume that the X-ray image diagnosis apparatus is in the setting state402 or 405 in FIG. 4 or the setting state 602 or 605 in FIG. 6. In thiscase, when the operator presses the lock release button 701, therestriction is released to allow the input of an imaging condition orirradiation start instruction.

FIG. 8 is a view showing another example of the window displayed on amonitor forming the operation panel A 116 or operation panel B 133 inthe X-ray image diagnosis apparatus according to this embodiment.

The window shown in FIG. 8 differs from the window shown in FIG. 2 inthat the window in FIG. 8 additionally has the lock release button 701.Another difference is that while the apparatus restricts the input ofany imaging condition or irradiation start instruction from an operationpanel, the mark “X” 801 or 802 is displayed on the corresponding button.Executing such display control allows the operator to easily check whatkind of control operation is currently restricted on the operationpanel. In addition, when the operator presses the lock release button701 to release this restriction, he/she can check it.

As is obvious from the above description, the X-ray image diagnosisapparatus according to this embodiment is provided with the lock releasebutton in consideration of an emergency and the like while reducing therisk of performing imaging under unintended imaging conditions. Inaddition, this apparatus is configured to clearly demonstrate thecontrol operation that is restricted on an operation panel.

This makes it possible to further improve the usability of the apparatusfor the operator.

[Other Embodiments]

Aspects of the present invention can also be realized by a computer of asystem or apparatus (or devices such as a CPU or MPU) that reads out andexecutes a program recorded on a memory device to perform the functionsof the above-described embodiment(s), and by a method, the steps ofwhich are performed by a computer of a system or apparatus by, forexample, reading out and executing a program recorded on a memory deviceto perform the functions of the above-described embodiment(s). For thispurpose, the program is provided to the computer for example via anetwork or from a recording medium of various types serving as thememory device (e.g., computer-readable medium).

While the present invention has been described with reference toexemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of thefollowing claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as toencompass all such modifications and equivalent structures andfunctions.

This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No.2008-198619 filed on Jul. 31, 2008, which is hereby incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

1. An X-ray imaging apparatus which irradiates an object with X-rays andprocesses an X-ray image obtained by imaging the object, the apparatuscomprising: a reception unit configured to receive a radiographicparameter which is input via an operation unit; a determination unitconfigured to determine an operation unit from a plurality of operationunits, including a first operation unit and a second operation unit, viawhich the received radiographic parameter has been input; a setting unitconfigured to set an operation right to the first operation unit if itis determined that the received radiographic parameter has been inputvia the first operation unit, and configured to set an operation rightto the second operation unit if it is determined that the receivedradiographic parameter has been input via the second operation unit; anda restriction unit configured to restrict performance of imaging basedon a radiographic parameter input via an operation unit other than theoperation unit to which the operation right has been set using saidsetting unit.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein saidrestriction unit restricts reception of a start instruction to startX-ray irradiation which is input via an operation unit other than theoperation unit to which the operation right is set using the settingunit.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said restrictionunit restricts reception of the radiographic parameter which is inputvia an operation unit other than the operation unit to which theoperation right is set using the setting unit.
 4. The apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein, when imaging of the object is completeafter imaging is started in accordance with a start instruction to startX-ray irradiation, said restriction unit releases the restriction. 5.The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when a release instructionis input via an operation unit, said restriction unit releases therestriction.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when arelease instruction is input via an operation unit, said restrictionunit releases the restriction on an operation unit from which therelease instruction is input.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 1,further comprising a display control unit configured to perform controlto display, on an operation unit from which reception is restricted bysaid restriction unit, operation performed on the operation unit.
 8. Theapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the radiographic parameterincludes parameters and instructions used for controlling an X-raysensor or for controlling an X-ray tube.
 9. The apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein said determination unit determines an operation unitfrom the plurality of operation units via which the radiographicparameter first received by said reception unit is input.
 10. Theapparatus according to claim 9, wherein said restriction unit restrictsthe control of at least one of an X-ray sensor unit for imaging and anX-ray generator unit for X-ray irradiation.
 11. The apparatus accordingto claim 1, wherein when an operation right is set to a first operationunit and a radiographic parameter is received from a second operationunit, said setting unit sets the operation right to the second operationunit instead of the first operation unit, and said restriction unitrestricts initiation of X-ray irradiation of an X-ray generator based ona start instruction to start X-ray irradiation which is received fromoperation units other than the second operation unit.
 12. The apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein when said reception unit receives aparameter used for controlling a C-arm or a collimator of an X-raygenerator from operation units to which the operation right is not set,said restriction unit does not restrict control of the C-arm or thecollimator.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, if anoperation right is set to neither the first operation unit nor thesecond operation unit, said setting unit sets the operation right to thefirst operation unit in response to the determination that the receivedradiographic parameter is input via the first operation unit, and setsthe operation right to the second operation unit in response to thedetermination that the received radiographic parameter is input via thesecond operation unit.
 14. A control method for application to an X-rayimaging apparatus which irradiates an object with X-rays and processesan X-ray image obtained by imaging the object, the method comprisingsteps of: receiving a radiographic parameter, which is input via anoperation unit; determining via which operation unit, including a firstoperation unit and a second operation unit, of plural operation unitsthe parameter has been input; setting an operation right to the firstoperation unit if it is determined that the received radiographicparameter has been input via the first operation unit, and to the secondoperation unit if it is determined that the received radiographicparameter has been input via the second operation unit; and restrictingperformance of imaging based on a radiographic parameter input via anoperation unit other than the operation unit to which the operationright is set.
 15. A non-transitory computer-readable storage mediumwhich stores a program for causing a computer to execute a controlmethod defined in claim
 14. 16. The method according to claim 14,wherein the radiographic parameter includes parameters and instructionsused for controlling an X-ray sensor or for controlling an X-ray tube.17. An X-ray image diagnosis apparatus which irradiates an object withX-rays and processes a radiographed image obtained by imaging theobject, said apparatus comprising: a reception unit configured toreceive a radiographic parameter which is input via an operation unit; adiscrimination unit configured to discriminate, when said reception unitreceives the radiographic parameter, from which operation unit of two ormore operation units the parameter has been received; and a restrictionunit configured to restrict performance of imaging based on aradiographic parameter received from an operation unit other than theoperation unit discriminated by said discrimination unit, wherein, whena release instruction is input via an operation unit, said restrictionunit releases the restriction on an operation unit from which therelease instruction is input.
 18. An X-ray image diagnosis apparatuswhich irradiates an object with X-rays and processes a radiographedimage obtained by imaging the object, said apparatus comprising: areception unit configured to receive a radiographic parameter which isinput via an operation unit; a determination unit configured todetermine an operation unit from among a plurality of operation units,including a first operation unit and a second operation unit, via whichthe received radiographic parameter has been input; a setting unitconfigured to set an operation right to the first operation unit if itis determined that the received radiographic parameter has been inputvia the first operation unit, and configured to set an operation rightto the second operation unit if it is determined that the receivedradiographic parameter has been input via the second operation unit; anda restriction unit configured to restrict performance of imaging basedon a radiographic parameter input via an operation unit other than theoperation unit to which the operation right is set using said settingunit, wherein the radiographic parameter is at least one of parametersand instructions used for controlling an X-ray sensor or for controllingan X-ray tube.
 19. An X-ray image diagnosis apparatus which irradiatesan object with X-rays and processes a radiographed image obtained byimaging the object, said apparatus comprising: a reception unitconfigured to receive a radiographic parameter which is input via anoperation unit; a determination unit configured to determine anoperation unit from among a plurality of operation units via which thereceived radiographic parameter has been input; a setting unitconfigured to set an operation right to the operation unit determined bysaid determination unit; and a restriction unit configured to restrictperformance of imaging based on a radiographic parameter input via anoperation unit other than the operation unit to which the operationright is set by said setting unit, wherein, when the reception unitreceives a parameter used for controlling a C-arm or a collimator of anX-ray generator from an operation unit to which an operation right isnot set, said restriction unit does not restrict controlling of theC-arm or the collimator.
 20. An X-ray imaging apparatus which irradiatesan object with X-rays and processes an X-ray image obtained by imagingthe object, the apparatus comprising: a reception unit configured toreceive a radiographic parameter which is input via an operation unit; adetermination unit configured to determine an operation unit from aplurality of operation units including a first operation unit and asecond operation unit via which the received radiographic parameter hasbeen input; a setting unit configured to set an operation right to thefirst operation unit if said determination unit determines that aradiographic parameter has been input via the first operation unit, andconfigured to set an operation right to the second operation unit ifsaid determination unit determines that a radiographic parameter hasbeen input via the second operation unit; and a restriction unitconfigured to restrict performance of imaging based on a radiographicparameter input via an operation unit other than the operation unit towhich the operation right has been set using said setting unit, wherein,when an operation right is set to a first operation unit and aradiographic parameter is received from a second operation unit, saidsetting unit sets the operation right to the second operation unitinstead of the first operation unit, and said restriction unit restrictsinitiation of X-ray irradiation of an X-ray generator based on a startinstruction to start X-ray irradiation which is received from operationunits other than the second operation unit.